Following two road victories in Boston, the New York Knicks return to Madison Square Garden for Game 3 against the Boston Celtics. Even trailing 0-2 in the series, the Celtics remain narrow favorites in the Eastern Conference. The game begins at 3:30 p.m. ET.
Subsequently, one team will gain a 2-1 series advantage when the Minnesota Timberwolves visit San Francisco to face the Golden State Warriors. Golden State secured Game 1, but Minnesota retaliated to tie the series 1-1 in Game 2.
Here are several notable betting opportunities for the games scheduled tonight.
Bet: New York Knicks vs. Boston Celtics Total Points Over 206.5 (-115). The initial total for this series` opening game was significantly higher, suggesting this current line might be an overcorrection. Boston has experienced unusually poor shooting on open shots. A statistical regression towards their usual performance is likely, assuming normal conditions at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks should also see better results on their open looks. Despite potentially being a half-court focused game, this low total for two teams ranked top five in offensive efficiency is appealing.
Bet: Derrick White Over 3.5 Three-Pointers Made (-125). While Boston might focus more on driving to the paint against New York`s interior defense (especially without Mitchell Robinson), White could still benefit by receiving catch-and-shoot passes from Boston`s star wings. His size advantage against Jalen Brunson and ability to operate in space alongside high-scoring teammates also support this pick. Multiple factors point towards Boston`s offense performing better, which bodes well for White`s shooting opportunities.
Bet: Julius Randle Over 24.5 Total Points and Assists (-120). Randle has effectively adjusted to the Timberwolves` offense, becoming a less ball-dominant player who still impacts the game significantly. He leads the team in potential assists during the playoffs, averaging a solid 11 per game. Although he`s not holding the ball for post-ups or isolations as frequently as before, he`s making impactful plays. Randle`s improved decisiveness is a major reason Minnesota is viewed as a championship contender. Expect this positive trend to continue tonight. Additionally, his rebounding prop of 6.5 (-120) appears valuable. Including Randle in single-game parlays or bets offers an interesting option for the matchup.
Game Projections and Injury Updates
Projections by ESPN Analytics. Injury information aggregated by Rotowire.com. Odds information included for context.
Boston Celtics at New York Knicks
3:30 p.m. ET
Point Spread: Celtics -5.5 (-120) | Knicks +5.5 (EVEN)
Moneyline: Celtics -240 | Knicks +200
Game Total: 207.5 Over (-105) / Under (-115)
Projection (ESPN Analytics): Knicks win probability 51%, Projected Total 214.4 points.
Injury Report:
Celtics: Sam Hauser (Questionable – Ankle)
Knicks: No injuries reported
Minnesota Timberwolves at Golden State Warriors
8:30 p.m. ET
Point Spread: Timberwolves -5.5 (-105) | Warriors +5.5 (-115)
Moneyline: Timberwolves -215 | Warriors +180
Game Total: 200.5 Over (-115) / Under (-105)
Projection (ESPN Analytics): Timberwolves win probability 55%, Projected Total 211.8 points.
Injury Report:
Timberwolves: Rob Dillingham (Questionable – Ankle)
Warriors: Stephen Curry (OUT – Hamstring)
